Minor illnesses or accidents can happen at any time so it's worth being prepared. It makes sense to keep some first aid items and simple remedies to treat minor complaints and accidents.
Below is a checklist of what should be kept in the family medicine chest:
- paracetamol and aspirin (children under 16 and people with asthma should not take aspirin)
- paracetamol (for example, Calpol) or ibuprofen syrups (or both) for children
- mild laxatives
- anti-diarrhoea medicines
- rehydration mixture
- indigestion remedy, for example antacids (Rennies)
- tweezers and sharp scissors
- a thermometer
- a selection of plasters, non-absorbent cotton wool, elastic bandages and dressings
But remember:
- keep the medicine chest in a secure, locked place, out of reach of small children
- always read the instructions and use the suggested dose
- watch expiry dates - don't keep or use medicines past their sell-by date
- take all unwanted and out-of-date medicines back to the pharmacy. This is to stop medicines getting into the water supply and the wrong people getting hold of medicines someone else has thrown away
